Canine influenza (US)

Canine influenza virus (CIV) infects virtually all dogs that are exposed to the virus. If your dog has signs of a respiratory infection (sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, fever), contact your veterinarian and ask whether your dog should be vaccinated against canine influenza.

Canine influenza virus (CIV) was first detected in 2004 in racing greyhounds in Florida. Researchers found that this new canine influenza developed when an equine influenza virus adapted to infect dogs - this was the first time that an equine influenza virus had been found to "jump" from horses to dogs. According to Dr Cynda Crawford of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, canine influenza does not infect people, and there is no documentation that cats have become infected by exposure to dogs with CIV.

CIV has caused localized disease outbreaks around the USA - it has been reported in more than 30 states plus the District of Columbia. If the disease has been reported in your area, you should take steps to prevent your dog from contracting it.